2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · CA66 FBC

The 2016 Ford Fiesta presents a stable roadworthiness record in the most recent MOT cycles, with no defects logged in either the January 2026 tests—one passed, one failed—despite the latter’s administrative rejection. This consistency suggests the vehicle’s core mechanical and safety systems were in order at 55,478 miles, with no advisories or major wear items recorded. The absence of recurring failures or advisories over the past two years indicates the car has either been well-maintained or, more likely, driven lightly enough to avoid accelerated wear. That said, the back-to-back pass/fail on the same day in January 2026 raises a procedural question—whether the failure was due to a minor, easily rectified issue (e.g., a missing component or documentation error) rather than a mechanical fault. For a buyer, this near-perfect MOT history is a positive sign, though the lack of advisories may also imply the tester did not probe deeply into wear items like suspension bushes or brake condition, which are not mandatory checks unless visibly defective. The Fiesta’s mileage of 55,478 over ten years—roughly 5,500 miles annually—is unusually low for its age, suggesting either infrequent use, extended periods of disuse, or a secondary/garage-kept vehicle. The gap between the 2024 January test (48,060 miles) and the 2026 January tests (55,478 miles) shows just 7,418 miles covered in two years, a pace that would preserve components like tyres, brakes, and suspension far longer than average. Such low mileage reduces typical wear risks, but it also means key consumables—like brake pads, wiper blades, or cabin air filters—may never have been replaced proactively. The lack of mileage accumulation could mask deferred maintenance, particularly if the car sat unused for long stretches without basic checks. Buyers should verify whether the vehicle has been driven regularly or stored, as the latter might hide issues like seized bearings, degraded fluids, or corrosion in less accessible areas. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of components not routinely tested unless visibly faulty. Pay close attention to the suspension—check for worn or cracked bushes in the control arms, track rod ends, and coil springs, as these are not always flagged unless there’s noticeable movement or noise. The brakes should be tested for uneven wear or binding, particularly the rear calipers, which can seize without obvious MOT advisories if the pads are still serviceable but the mechanism is corroded. Inspect the exhaust system for rust or leaks, especially around the mounts and silencers, as low-mileage cars often develop corrosion when exposed to moisture without regular movement. Finally, verify fluid levels—brake, coolant, and power steering—since stagnant fluids can degrade over time, and check for any signs of leaks under the car or in the bay. The absence of MOT advisories is encouraging, but low mileage can sometimes conceal deferred maintenance, so a hands-on check is essential.